Mexican food in Colorado Springs is a vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and at larosafoods.com, we’re dedicated to guiding you to the most mouthwatering dishes and hidden gems. From family-owned taquerias to innovative fusion restaurants, you’ll discover the best spots for tacos, enchiladas, and beyond. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey to discover the best Mexican eateries in Colorado Springs, from cozy cantinas to food trucks.
1. What Makes Mexican Food in Colorado Springs Special?
Mexican food in Colorado Springs stands out because of its rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary influences. The city’s growing Hispanic population has led to an increase in authentic Mexican restaurants, offering a wide range of traditional dishes alongside innovative fusion creations. This blend of old and new, combined with fresh, local ingredients, creates a unique dining experience that is both comforting and exciting. According to a 2020 census, the Hispanic population in Colorado Springs increased by 38% from 2010, further influencing the culinary landscape.
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Authenticity: Colorado Springs boasts numerous family-owned restaurants that have been serving traditional Mexican recipes for generations.
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Diversity: From street tacos to upscale dining, the city offers a wide range of Mexican culinary experiences.
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Local Ingredients: Many restaurants prioritize fresh, local ingredients, enhancing the flavor and quality of their dishes.
2. Where Can You Find Authentic Mexican Restaurants in Downtown Colorado Springs?
Downtown Colorado Springs offers a variety of authentic Mexican restaurants, each with its unique charm and culinary specialties. From build-your-own burritos to traditional family recipes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the heart of the city. These establishments not only serve delicious food but also contribute to the vibrant cultural tapestry of downtown Colorado Springs.
Azada Mexican Grill
Azada Mexican Grill is known for its freshly made tortillas and build-your-own burritos, offering a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine right in front of you. This family-owned spot has been crafting authentic recipes since 2013, making it a local favorite for breakfast burritos and customizable creations. Their commitment to quality and flavor makes it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican food.
- Address: 16 E. Bijou St.
- Specialty: Build-your-own burritos and breakfast burritos.
- Vibe: Casual, family-owned.
Dos Santos
Dos Santos blends Mexican fusion with an urban flair, offering innovative dishes and strong, fruit-forward margaritas in a modern setting. Their fresh seafood starters, like poke nachos and ceviche, are perfect for sharing, and their Taco of the Month offers a seasonal twist. Don’t miss Wu-Tang Wednesdays for a unique dining experience with old-school hip-hop.
- Address: 70 E. Moreno Ave.
- Specialty: Mexican fusion and craft margaritas.
- Vibe: Urban, modern.
Salsa Latina
Salsa Latina keeps the family recipes of El Taco Rey alive, serving up great menudo, Mexican gumbo, and their version of the famous Avocado Pork Burrito. This spot is perfect for those seeking traditional flavors and hearty, satisfying meals. It’s also a great place to order New Year tamales, ensuring a delicious start to the year.
- Address: 28 E. Rio Grand St.
- Specialty: Menudo, Mexican gumbo, and Avocado Pork Burrito.
- Vibe: Traditional, family-oriented.
Zocalo
Zocalo has quickly become a downtown favorite with its beachy, hipster vibes, family recipes, and craft cocktails. Their steak chimichurri, mushroom and panela cheese tacos, and chile rellenos are highly recommended. The indoor VW taco bus and Tulum-inspired decor add to the unique and enjoyable atmosphere.
- Address: 418 S. Tejon St.
- Specialty: Steak chimichurri, mushroom and panela cheese tacos, and chile rellenos.
- Vibe: Beachy, hipster.
3. What Are the Best Mexican Food Trucks and Hidden Gems in Central Colorado Springs?
Central Colorado Springs is home to some of the best Mexican food trucks and hidden gems, offering authentic street food and unique culinary experiences. These spots may be unassuming, but they deliver high-quality flavors and a true taste of Mexican culture. Perfect for a quick bite or a casual meal, these establishments are local favorites.
El Chapin
El Chapin is a resident food truck that offers the most authentic Mexican street food in Colorado Springs, sourcing high-quality, local proteins from Callicrate Meat. Their lengua tacos are a must-try, and pairing them with an agua fresca while dining under their covered patio is a perfect experience. This food truck brings a true taste of Mexico to the heart of the city.
- Address: 1228 E. Fillmore St.
- Specialty: Lengua tacos and agua fresca.
- Vibe: Authentic, street food.
Monica’s Taco Shop
Monica’s Taco Shop may not look like much from the outside, but it’s a place where the tacos speak for themselves, offering delicious and quick breakfast burritos. Voted best tacos by Springs Magazine six years ago, the tacos remain a local favorite. It’s a no-frills spot where the focus is on the quality and flavor of the food.
- Address: 5829 Palmer Park Blvd.
- Specialty: Tacos and breakfast burritos.
- Vibe: Casual, no-frills.
4. Where Can You Find Family-Friendly Mexican Restaurants on the North Side of Colorado Springs?
The North Side of Colorado Springs features several family-friendly Mexican restaurants that offer a warm and inviting atmosphere along with delicious, home-style cooking. These establishments are perfect for a casual family meal, with menus that cater to both adults and children. You’ll find a variety of dishes that showcase the diversity of Mexican cuisine.
Jarrito Loco
Jarrito Loco in Monument exudes familial vibes with homegrown recipes inherited from Grandmother Maria, offering breakfast all day and weekly specials on Tuesdays. Explore their variety of vegetarian and gluten-free menu items. Try the Carne Tampiqueña to get a taste of their signature mole enchilada with a half order of carne asada.
- Address: 315 W. Highway 105, Monument
- Specialty: Carne Tampiqueña and breakfast served all day.
- Vibe: Casual, family-oriented.
Milagro’s Cocina Mexicana
Milagro’s Cocina Mexicana offers an elevated dining experience with vibrant art, decor, and a menu that showcases the diversity of regional Mexican cuisine. Sip on one of their specialty cocktails, like the spicy pineapple margarita, and enjoy their extensive library of tequilas and mezcal. The Cochinita Pibil, a braised pork shank wrapped in banana leaves, is highly recommended.
- Address: 7455 N. Academy Blvd.
- Specialty: Cochinita Pibil and specialty cocktails.
- Vibe: Upscale, vibrant.
PigLatin Cocina
PigLatin Cocina never disappoints with its Latin fusion drawing from Mexican, Colombian, and other South American influences, offering colorful flavors and a vibrant atmosphere. With Chef Andres Velez at the helm, expect innovative craft cocktails, street tacos, and arepas. It’s a spot that embraces disruption and creativity in its culinary offerings.
- Address: 2825 Dublin Blvd.
- Specialty: Latin fusion dishes and craft cocktails.
- Vibe: Colorful, vibrant.
Salsa Brava Fresh Mexican Grill
Salsa Brava offers a consistent yet ambitious blend of Mexican, Tex Mex, and Southwestern cuisines in a bustling family-friendly environment. Located at Powers and Dublin, it stands out with its slow-roasted carnitas and sour cream and chicken enchiladas. This restaurant is a local favorite for its reliable and diverse menu.
- Address: 5925 S. Dublin Blvd.
- Specialty: Slow-roasted carnitas and sour cream and chicken enchiladas.
- Vibe: Bustling, family-friendly.
5. Where Can You Find the Best Value for Classic Mexican Fare on the East Side/Southeast of Colorado Springs?
The East Side and Southeast areas of Colorado Springs are known for offering the best value for classic Mexican fare, with large portions and unbeatable prices. These restaurants provide a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine without breaking the bank. They are perfect for those looking for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Arceo’s
Arceo’s serves family Mexican fare with large portions at an unbeatable price, offering the best value in town for great classic Mexican dishes. Most dishes are around the $15 price range, including the fajitas. Don’t miss the Super Molcagete, a hearty Mexican stew with chicken, shrimp, fish, and beef.
- Address: 1605 S. Nevada Ave.
- Specialty: Super Molcagete and fajitas.
- Vibe: Casual, family-friendly.
Maria’s Taco Shop
Maria’s Taco Shop offers a basic taqueria ambiance, but it’s known for its delicious fish tacos, which are close to those found on the beach in Puerto Vallarta. It’s also among the best places to find micheladas, a clamato and beer concoction known for being a super hangover cure. This spot is a must-visit for authentic flavors and refreshing drinks.
- Address: 2812 E. Pikes Peak Ave.
- Specialty: Fish tacos and micheladas.
- Vibe: Basic, authentic.
Sofia’s Antojitos
Sofia’s Antojitos brings a fresh, fun element to the Springs’ dining scene with a unique variety of Mexican street food and snacks, including tortas and specialty quesabirria tacos. Don’t miss the creative snacks like Elote Preparado and Esquites, and the Vaso Chorreado. Find the original restaurant at Galley and Academy, and watch for a second shop opening at 4037 Tutt Blvd.
- Address: 1035 N. Academy Blvd.
- Specialty: Quesabirria tacos and creative Mexican snacks.
- Vibe: Fun, eclectic.
Tacos El Amigo
Tacos El Amigo is well-known among Colorado College students and locals as the place to go for the best birria tacos in the Springs, as well as menudo on those days when you need it. Don’t miss the Hamburguesa Estilio Juares, a hamburger topped with a hotdog, ham, guac, lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese.
- Address: 2416 E. Boulder St.
- Specialty: Birria tacos and Hamburguesa Estilio Juares.
- Vibe: Casual, local favorite.
Tlaquepaque
Tlaquepaque, located in an unassuming strip mall on the Eastside, serves traditional, authentic Mexican food that is consistently great. It’s best known for their birria tacos, filled with a stewed beef that melts in your mouth, and the rich broth served on the side. The chilaquiles are also a must-try.
- Address: 911 N. Murray Blvd.
- Specialty: Birria tacos and chilaquiles.
- Vibe: Traditional, authentic.
6. What Late-Night Mexican Food Options Are Available on the Westside of Colorado Springs?
The Westside of Colorado Springs offers some excellent late-night Mexican food options, perfect for those late-night cravings. These establishments provide reliable and outstanding food, even when the rest of the city is asleep. They are a go-to spot for those in the know.
Alfonso’s Mexican Food
Alfonso’s Mexican Food is a longstanding Springs institution, reliably outstanding and somehow always open late. For true celebrations, order the Don Poncho, a foot-long burrito with everything in it, including fries. It’s not for the faint of heart.
- Address: 1022 S. 21st St.
- Specialty: Don Poncho burrito.
- Vibe: Casual, late-night.
Crystal Park Cantina
Crystal Park Cantina in Manitou has been a popular mainstay since 2011, known for great margaritas and beautiful views. Their dedication to using the freshest ingredients shows in their food and drinks. The pomegranate margarita pairs well with their smoky rich mole. It’s the perfect spot to visit after a hike up the Incline.
- Address: 178 Crystal Park Rd.
- Specialty: Pomegranate margarita and mole dishes.
- Vibe: Scenic, casual.
La Unica
La Unica on the Springs’ Westside welcomes you with bright pinks, yellows, blue furnishings, and lots of colored lights. This nice, authentic sit-down restaurant offers chunky, spicy salsa and zesty guac. The complex, savory sauces, especially the mole on the roast pork and the ranchero sauce on the Sonora Style Chicken, are standouts. Enjoy with a margarita on the patio.
- Address: 3317 W. Colorado Ave.
- Specialty: Mole on roast pork and ranchero sauce on Sonora Style Chicken.
- Vibe: Authentic, colorful.
Rudy’s Little Hideaway
Rudy’s Little Hideaway, towering over 8th Street with sweeping mountain views, is a popular Westside breakfast spot. It’s a family-run operation where everyone is glad to see you. Order the Huevos Rancheros with a side of bacon, or get the Chorizo Stack. The margaritas are amazing and available any time of the day.
- Address: 945 S. 8th St.
- Specialty: Huevos Rancheros and margaritas.
- Vibe: Family-run, scenic.
7. What is the Most Popular Mexican Food Truck in Colorado Springs?
Tepex is arguably one of the most popular food trucks in Colorado Springs. Chef Fernando Trancoso has carved out his place as an authority on Mexican food with an undeniable influence from his former foodie hometown of Santa Fe. Loyal patrons follow him routinely on his craft brewery rotation to pair local beers with his upscale, yet accessible plates. Don’t miss the beloved Quesabirrias with four tacos and a side of consomme.
- Specialty: Quesabirrias.
- Vibe: Upscale, accessible.
8. How Has Colorado Springs’ Growing Hispanic Population Influenced Its Mexican Food Scene?
Colorado Springs’ growing Hispanic population has profoundly influenced its Mexican food scene. The increase in residents identifying as Hispanic or Latino has led to a greater demand for authentic Mexican cuisine, resulting in a proliferation of family-owned restaurants, food trucks, and markets that specialize in traditional dishes. This cultural shift has not only enriched the city’s culinary landscape but has also fostered a deeper appreciation for Mexican heritage and flavors. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Hispanic population in Colorado Springs has grown significantly, contributing to the vibrant and diverse food scene.
9. What Are Some Unique Mexican Dishes You Can Find in Colorado Springs That You Might Not Find Elsewhere?
Colorado Springs offers a variety of unique Mexican dishes that reflect the region’s culinary creativity and cultural influences. Some standout dishes include:
- Avocado Pork Burrito at Salsa Latina: A family recipe from the now-defunct El Taco Rey, this burrito is slathered in a pork-heavy green chile sauce.
- Hamburguesa Estilio Juares at Tacos El Amigo: A hamburger topped with a hotdog, ham, guac, lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese.
- Don Poncho at Alfonso’s Mexican Food: A foot-long burrito with everything in it, including fries.
- Cochinita Pibil at Milagro’s Cocina Mexicana: An impressive braised pork shank wrapped in banana leaves and served with habanero jam and frijoles charros.
- Super Molcagete at Arceo’s: A hearty Mexican stew with chicken, shrimp, fish, and beef.
10. How Can I Stay Updated on the Best Mexican Food Spots and New Openings in Colorado Springs?
Staying updated on the best Mexican food spots and new openings in Colorado Springs is easy with larosafoods.com. We regularly update our content with the latest restaurant reviews, culinary news, and insider tips to ensure you never miss out on the city’s vibrant food scene. You can also follow local food bloggers and publications, such as Springs Magazine, for up-to-date information and recommendations.
FAQ About Mexican Food in Colorado Springs
What is the most popular Mexican dish in Colorado Springs?
Tacos are incredibly popular, especially birria tacos and fish tacos, which are favorites at spots like Tacos El Amigo and Maria’s Taco Shop.
Are there vegetarian or vegan Mexican options in Colorado Springs?
Yes, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. Jarrito Loco, for example, has a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free menu items.
Where can I find the spiciest salsa in Colorado Springs?
La Unica is known for its chunky, spicy salsa, which is among the best in town.
Do I need a reservation for Mexican restaurants in Colorado Springs?
For casual spots like taco shops and food trucks, reservations are generally not needed. However, for upscale restaurants like Milagro’s Cocina Mexicana, it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends.
Are there any Mexican restaurants with outdoor seating in Colorado Springs?
Yes, Crystal Park Cantina and La Unica both offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal with beautiful views.
What is a good price range for a Mexican meal in Colorado Springs?
You can find great meals for under $10 at spots like Salsa Latina and Monica’s Taco Shop, while upscale dining experiences at places like Milagro’s Cocina Mexicana may range from $20-$40 per person.
What are some must-try Mexican drinks in Colorado Springs?
Micheladas at Maria’s Taco Shop and margaritas at Crystal Park Cantina and Dos Santos are highly recommended.
Where can I find authentic Mexican street corn (elote) in Colorado Springs?
Sofia’s Antojitos offers a variety of decadent corn on the cob options, including Elote Preparado and Esquites.
Which Mexican restaurants in Colorado Springs offer catering services?
Many restaurants, including Salsa Brava and some food trucks like Tepex, may offer catering services. It’s best to contact the restaurant directly to inquire about their catering options.
What are some good Mexican breakfast options in Colorado Springs?
Azada Mexican Grill is known for its perfect breakfast burritos, and Rudy’s Little Hideaway is popular for its Huevos Rancheros and Chorizo Stack.
Ready to explore the delicious world of Mexican food in Colorado Springs? Visit larosafoods.com for more reviews, recipes, and culinary adventures. Discover your new favorite spot today!
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